What are three things to consider when choosing an Ethernet cord?

1 answer

1. Cable Category: Different Ethernet cables are categorized by performance standards such as Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, and Cat7. The chosen cable category should match the speed requirements of the network and the devices being connected.

2. Cable Length: The length of the Ethernet cable should be considered based on the distance between the devices that need to be connected. It is important to choose a cable that is long enough to comfortably reach the desired connection points without excessive slack or tension.

3. Shielding: Ethernet cables can be either shielded (STP) or unshielded (UTP). Shielded cables provide better protection against electromagnetic interference, making them suitable for environments with high electrical noise or interference. Unshielded cables are generally sufficient for regular home or office use with minimal electrical interference. The shielding option should be chosen based on the specific environment and requirements of the network.